A new law in Florida is taking many drivers by surprise as it enforces stricter regulations regarding license plate visibility. Effective October 1, 2025, changes to state statute 320.061, as outlined in House Bill 253, make it illegal to block, cover, distort, or obscure a Florida license plate in any way.
What used to be commonplace accessories, such as tinted shields, decorative frames, and glossy cover protectors, can now result in criminal charges. The law classifies obstructed license plates as a second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail or a fine of $500.
The scope of what constitutes an obscured plate is quite broad. Under the new rules, any form of tinted, smoky, or clear plastic cover, decorative frames hiding parts of the numbers, letters or the state name, reflective sprays or coatings, and mechanical devices designed to conceal the plate are prohibited. Even dealership-installed frames can fall afoul of the law if they obscure even a slight portion of the plate.
More seriously, those who manufacture or sell devices that block license plates face a first-degree misdemeanor charge, which carries a maximum penalty of one year in jail. Using such devices while committing another crime escalates the offense to a third-degree felony, leading to potential imprisonment for up to five years.
The impetus behind this legislative change stems from ongoing complaints by law enforcement and tolling agencies that obscured tags hinder vehicle identification during criminal investigations and day-to-day law enforcement activities. Advocates of the law argue that it creates a consistent standard across the state while targeting those who use devices to evade tolls or detection during crimes.
Drivers need to be aware of what is permitted under the new law. Plain, unobstructed license plates remain lawful, and standard thin frames that do not cover the numbers, letters, registration decal, or any part of the plate border are allowed. However, if a frame overlaps even a small section of the plate’s design, it is likely illegal.
For Florida drivers, the safest approach is to strip their license plates bare. This means removing any covers, coatings, or tinted shields and utilizing minimalist frames that ensure every detail—word, number, and border—is fully visible. The law not only emphasizes the importance of license plate visibility but also aims to enhance overall road safety and identify vehicles effectively in various situations.